Melanoma Research Foundation Applauds Ranking of Tanning Booths as the Highest Cancer Risk

PRZOOM - /newswire/ -
Hillsborough, NJ, United States, 2009/07/29 - A statement from the Melanoma Research Foundation regarding the ranking of tanning booths as the highest cancer risk by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

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The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), the largest independent, national organization devoted to melanoma in the United States, released the following statement regarding the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) decision to place tanning beds and all types of ultraviolet radiation (UV) in the highest cancer risk category.

The Melanoma Research Foundation applauds the IARC’s reclassification of all types of UV radiation and UV-emitting tanning devices from “probable carcinogens” to “carcinogenic to humans.” This places tanning beds in the same category as asbestos, arsenic and tobacco products. Contrary to the tanning industry’s claims, there is clear link between all forms of skin cancer and exposure to UV rays from natural or artificial sources (such as tanning beds).

Today’s announcement reiterates there are clear, evidence-based data demonstrating harmful effects of UVA and UVB radiation, including its carcinogenic effects on DNA. The use of indoor tanning devices (outside of medical practice) represents one of the most striking examples of an avoidable cause of lethal cancer in humans.

As an organization, we are dedicated to raising awareness of this deadly disease and teaching people how to reduce their risk of developing melanoma. Unfortunately, many people still equate being tan with being beautiful or have the attitude that they are immune to the dangers of tanning. But the truth is that every 8 minutes, an American is diagnosed with melanoma and every hour a family is shattered when this terrible disease claims a life of someone’s son or daughter.

About Melanoma
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, is one of the fastest growing cancers in the United States and can strike men and women of all ages, all races and skin types. In fact, with a one in 50 lifetime risk of developing melanoma, nearly 69,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with the disease in 2009, resulting in 8,650 deaths or one person every hour. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults 25- to 29-years-old and the second most common cancer in adolescents and young adults 15- to 29-years-old.

About Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF)
The Melanoma Research Foundation (melanoma.org) is the largest independent, national organization devoted to melanoma in the United States. Committed to the support of medical research in finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma, the MRF also educates patients and physicians about prevention, diagnosis and the treatment of melanoma. The MRF is an active advocate for the melanoma community, helping to raise awareness of this disease and the need for a cure. The MRF’s Web site is the premier source for melanoma information seekers.

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